"My heart goes out to Keralam": Priyanka Gandhi expresses grief as rains claim 8 lives
New Delhi, August 2
Congress leader Priyanka Gandhi Vadra on Sunday expressed grief over the devastation caused by heavy rains in Kerala that have claimed eight lives and displaced thousands.
In a post on X, Priyanka Gandhi Vadra wrote, "My heart goes out to the people of Keralam affected by the devastating rains. My deepest condolences to the families who have lost loved ones. I pray for the safe return of those who are missing and a speedy recovery for the injured."
She added, "In this difficult hour, the Congress-led UDF government is on the ground carrying out relief and rescue work. I urge all Congress and UDF workers to stand with those affected and extend every possible support."
Earlier in the day, Congress leader Rahul Gandhi expressed grief over the devastation caused by heavy rains in Keralam.
In a post on X, Rahul Gandhi said the state government is making every possible effort to support affected families and coordinate relief and recovery operations.
"Deeply saddened by the devastation caused by heavy rains across Keralam. My heartfelt condolences to the families of the eight people who have lost their lives. May those still missing be found safe, and the injured make a swift recovery. The state government is making every possible effort to support affected families and coordinate relief and recovery operations. I urge all Congress workers and volunteers to assist these efforts in every possible way. Please remain vigilant, especially in the hilly regions, and follow the guidance of the authorities. Keralam stands united in this difficult hour. I stand firmly with every affected family," he wrote onX.
According to official figures, eight people have died, eight others remain missing, and 13 people have sustained injuries in rain-related incidents in Keralam.
A total of 5,792 people have been shifted to 209 relief camps across the state. Twenty-seven houses have been completely destroyed while 196 houses have suffered partial damage.
An official release said that Chief Minister VD Satheesan continues to remain in touch with the ministers in charge of various districts and district administrations regarding the rain-related situation in the state.
Rainfall has reduced compared to the previous day, bringing some relief. Cleaning and sanitation operations have begun in flood-affected areas, and political workers and voluntary organisations have been urged to participate in the cleaning drives. The government said it would extend all necessary support.
People living in hilly areas are to remain vigilant. The release said that although rainfall has reduced, all necessary preparations have been made to deal with any eventuality.
The update added that public representatives and volunteers are actively engaged in relief operations, and people can approach the government machinery for any assistance they require.
— ANI
Reader Comments
It's heartening to see leaders from across the political spectrum come together in times of crisis. But let's not forget the real heroes - the fishermen, the local volunteers, and the first responders who risk their lives to save others. Kerala's resilience is truly inspiring. Stay safe, everyone.
I appreciate Priyanka Gandhi's concern, but I do wish the focus would be entirely on the relief efforts rather than political messaging. We have people displaced and homes destroyed - let's keep politics aside and help the affected. The state government needs all hands on deck.
As someone from Kerala, I can say this has been heartbreaking. The amount of rainfall in just 24 hours is unprecedented. But our people are strong - neighbours helping neighbours, volunteers making their way through flooded streets, and communities coming together. The political statements matter less than the ground reality, but every bit of support helps. 🌧️💙
God bless Kerala! 🙏 I just hope the central government also extends full support to the state, beyond just statements. Also, this is the third time in recent years that Wayanad and nearby hilly regions are facing such devastation. Climate change is real, and we need to take it seriously at all levels of governance.
The tragedy is real, but I'm a bit uncomfortable with the "Keralam" spelling being used by politicians. It might be a matter of regional pride for some, but the official name is Kerala. Either way, my thoughts are with the families. The relief camps have 5,000+ people - that's the real story here.